economy

Variable Rate Repo (VRR) Auctions: Aim and Key Features

Context: The RBI injected ₹55,837 crore into the banking system via a 3-day VRR auction to address tightening liquidity. What is Variable Rate Repo (VRR) Auctions? A Variable Rate Repo (VRR) is a monetary policy tool used by the RBI...

Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025: Trends, Concerns and Reforms

Context: As per the 2025 edition of the Corruption Perceptions Index published by Transparency International, perceptions of corruption in the public sector remain significantly high across the world. Global Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) 2025 Trends About the Corruption Perceptions Index...

Petrol Prices in India: Comprehensive List of State-Wise Petrol Prices (2026)

Petrol prices in India are a key economic indicator, directly impacting inflation, transportation costs, and household expenses. A combination of global crude oil rates, exchange rates, refining costs, and domestic taxes such as central excise duty and state VAT determines the petrol...

Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), Provisions and Importance

Context: The Government proposes changes to the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, to address gaps in managing foreign funds received by NGOs. To improve oversight, ensure proper use of funds, and remove administrative uncertainties. Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) The...

Urea Production, Process, Key Issues and Global Importance

Context: The ongoing West Asia conflict has exposed India’s vulnerability in fertiliser security, as both LNG supply (for domestic production) and urea imports depend heavily on the region. India's Dual Dependence on West Asia for Urea Production India’s dual dependence...

Electric Cooking Solutions in India: Working Principle and Mechanism of Induction Cooktop

Context India spends $26.4 billion annually on LPG imports, mostly transported through the Strait of Hormuz. Despite having 332 million LPG connections, around 37% of households still rely on firewood and dung. With electric cooking now cheaper than unsubsidised LPG,...

What Are Forex Reserves? Components, Significance and Current Concerns

Context: Following the recent escalation of the West Asian conflict, India's economy has begun feeling the strain. In just two weeks, foreign exchange reserves fell by $19 billion, the rupee weakened by 2.9% to ₹93.72, and stock markets dropped nearly...

SEBI’s SWAGAT-FI Framework for Low-Risk Foreign Investors: Meaning, Objectives, Benefits and Impact

In a significant move to enhance India’s attractiveness as a global investment destination, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has introduced the SWAGAT-FI Framework (Simplified and Welcoming Access for Global Investors – Foreign Investors). The framework is specifically...

Out-of-Pocket Health Expenditure, Reasons, Consequences and Government Initiatives

Context: In India, out-of-pocket expenditure is the primary method by which households pay for healthcare. However, while official data (NHA) indicate a decline, other surveys suggest a rise, revealing a significant data gap. Out-of-Pocket Health Expenditure (OOPE) OOPE in health...

Treasury Bills (T-bills): RBI Cuts Holdings in US Treasury Securities

Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has reduced its holdings of US Treasury Bills from $242 billion in June 2024 to around $227 billion in June 2025. What are Treasury Bills (T-bills)? Treasury Bills are short-term debt instruments issued...